#South Korea #CHOCOLATE Inc. #The Invisibles #BIFAN #Bucheon

'The Invisibles' Set for World Premiere at BIFAN 2026

The highly anticipated film 'The Invisibles', produced by CHOCOLATE Inc., will have its world premiere at the 30th Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival (BIFAN) from July 2 to July 12, 2026. This year’s festival will take place in the vibrant city of Bucheon, South Korea, and the film has been selected for the Fanta-scape category, which highlights genre films that broaden the scope of creative expression. The film’s director Ryo Takebayashi and lead actor Katsuya Maikuma are scheduled to attend and participate in panel discussions.

A Family Story with a Twist

'The Invisibles' tells the unconventional family tale of the challenges faced by a father and his three daughters, one of whom is a literal invisible girl. This unique narrative dives deep into themes of parenting and familial bonds, all while incorporating elements of sci-fi, humor, and heartfelt moments. The film is crafted by the same team from the successful 2022 film 'MONDAYS', directed by Ryo Takebayashi and written by Saori Natsu.

The Fanta-scape section of BIFAN focuses on films that represent a variety of genres including comedy, romance, and fantasy, emphasizing works that appreciate the unnoticed connections we share. Comments from film programmer Martin Lee praised 'The Invisibles' as a beautiful family story that celebrates invisible bonds, reminding us that true connections with our loved ones aren’t defined by visibility.

Festival Overview

BIFAN, established in 1997, stands as one of Asia’s largest film festivals now celebrating its 30th anniversary. It is renowned alongside the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) and Jeonju International Film Festival (JIFF) as one of Korea’s premier film events. Each year, it attracts high-quality films in genres such as sci-fi, fantasy, horror, action, and thriller from around the globe.

Insights from the Creative Team

Ryo Takebayashi, the film's director, started his career in commercial filming and has since expanded his portfolio to include documentaries and music videos. His previous work, '14-Year-Old Shiori,' achieved significant acclaim and became a sensation on social media, leading to a wider theatrical release. 'The Invisibles,' under his guidance, explores universal parental struggles through the lens of science fiction, forging a connection with audiences seeking heartfelt storytelling.

Katsuya Maikuma portrays the introverted and overprotective father Manabu Hoshino, whose life takes a turn with his youngest daughter’s invisibility. The sisters are played by rising stars including Rinko Suzuki as Hikari, the invisible sister, Hana Kondo as the eldest sister Fuko, and Hana Yamayama as the middle sibling Nene. The ensemble cast brings a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging actors, thus promising an engaging viewing experience.

The emotional plot centers on the challenging journey of Manabu and his daughters after the death of their nurturing mother. When they receive news that Manabu's famous actress mother is hospitalized in Tokyo, the family embarks on an adventure filled with trials, while trying to navigate the complexities of Hikari’s secret.

Key Information

• - Title: The Invisibles
• - Release Date: August 28, 2026
• - Director: Ryo Takebayashi
• - Screenplay: Saori Natsu & Ryo Takebayashi
• - Main Cast: Katsuya Maikuma, Rinko Suzuki, Hana Kondo, Hana Yamayama, and others.
• - Running Time: 110 minutes
• - Production: CHOCOLATE Inc.
• - Distribution: PARCO, CHOCOLATE Inc.
• - Official Site: mienaimusume.com

Be sure to keep an eye out for 'The Invisibles', both as an enthralling cinematic experience and as an illustration of the often unseen familial ties that bind us.

©THE INVISIBLES Production Committee